I built this Top 5 Pens list originally to discuss what some of my favorite pens are in various categories. That worked well for a while, but as this page has grown I realized it was time for a change in how it is presented.

The Top 5 Pens list represents my recommendations in the categories below. That differentiates it from my personal favorites, while giving readers more clarity on products they may want to check out.

That said, just because I recommend a product doesn’t mean it is perfect for your needs. As I said previously: Use these lists as guidelines. Do your research. Ask questions. Test them out if at all possible. Only then will you find the pen that is the perfect match for you.

Aside from the lists below, here are some great places to get your research started:

(Just missed: The Pentel Energel Euro always delights when I use it, especially the 0.35 mm black ink model. The Pilot FriXion will likely never crack the Top 5, but it is the only choice for erasable ink, and the FriXion Ball Knock is the best of the bunch.)

Pentel EnerGel - People swear by their EnerGels, and for good reason. Maybe the darkest and smoothest of the bunch. (Buy)

(Just missed: Now that the Uni-ball 307 is widely available in the 0.5 mm tip size it will eventually take the place of the 207 as number two on the list, and may challenge the Jetstream for number one.)

Top 5 Fountain Pens Under $50

Pilot Metropolitan - The battle for the best fountain pen for beginners is over and the Pilot Metropolitan has won. (Buy)

Lamy Safari - The Safari used to top this list and is still a great choice if you are ok with the molded grip section. (Buy)

Kaweco Sport - It isn't just a great portable, pocketable fountain pen. It's a great fountain pen period. (Buy)

Platinum Preppy - Is there such a thing as a quality fountain pen under $5? Yes. Yes there is. (Buy)

(Just missed: If you like the feel of the Platinum Preppy, the Platinum Plaisir is an upgraded barrel model that is equally as nice. If you want a more fun Metropolitan then the Pilot Kakuno is your choice.)

Top 5 Fountain Pens $50-$100

TWSBI 580AL - The same as the 580 before it, but improved with aluminum parts. (Buy)

Kaweco AL Sport - The durable aluminum barrel makes this one of the best portable fountain pens on the market. (Buy)

TWSBI Vac Mini - TWSBI owns this price point and the Vac Mini is one of the best of the bunch, if not the coolest. (Buy)

Lamy Studio - The Studio is the perfect step up for Lamy Safari fans. The nibs are identical and the metal barrel is much nicer. (Buy)

Kaweco Liliput - You think the AL Sport is small? The Liliput is about half the diameter, but all of the awesomeness. (Buy)

(Just missed: The Lamy CP1 is a good choice for those who like pens with a skinnier barrel. That’s the only thing holding it back from replacing the Studio in the list. It’s great otherwise.)

Top 5 Fountain Pens $100-$200

Lamy 2000 - One of the most beautiful fountain pens ever designed and the perfect entry point into gold nib pens. (Buy)

Pilot Custom 92 - There aren’t many colors available in the US, but with the recent price drop, the Custom 92 is a no-brainer. Piston fill > cartridge/converter every time. (Buy)